Fun, Fireworks and Free Concert During Show-Me Freedom Festival

A new Independence Day event kicks off this year at the Missouri State Fairgrounds. The Show-Me Freedom Festival is from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on July 4.

"We're extremely excited to be hosting an even this big in Sedalia," said Jorge Guevara with the GUESA Foundation, which is sponsoring the festival. There will be a variety of events and activities throughout the day, including an entire day of live music. "John Michael Montgomery is headlining the event, and he has countless hits. You'll be able to enjoy all six bands starting at 11 a.m., with local bands all the way through John Michael Montgomery. He's going to start playing at about 8 p.m." Queens Blvd, Dirt Road Addiction and up-and-coming country artist Michael Tyler are part of the live music lineup.

Admission to the festival is free. In addition to live music, there will be food, craft booths, kids' activities, a BBQ contest and corn hole tournament. Wristbands for kids' activities are $7 in advance, or $10 at the festival. Wristbands can be purchased in advance at Sedalia's Dairy Queen, Steak 'n' Shake, or AFC Urgent Care. On the hour, every hour, kids' attractions will be "five for five," meaning that for five minutes all of the activities will be for kids five and under.

The event will conclude with a fireworks show sponsored by Sedalia Parks and Rec and the City of Sedalia. "It's going to be a tremendous fireworks show. I believe that they are over doubling the firework amount that we have done in past years."

The Show-Me Freedom festival will take place in the infield area of the race track. Visitors are asked to come in through the 16th St. gate and park on the north parking lot. There shuttle trams available from the parking lot to the festival area. "Everything will be set up festival style. We're encouraging people to bring in their lawn chairs, set you can them up and enjoy the concerts from your personal lawn chair."